Sali Hughes: why cica creams belong in every first-aid kit

Sali Hughes keeps a cica balm alongside wound dressings and tape in her kitchen first-aid kit, arguing that some cosmetic creams act as practical, multipurpose emollients. Cica, or Centella asiatica, is noted for its skin-calming properties and for supporting a skin barrier compromised by illness, everyday injury and lifestyle factors.

Hughes stresses that cica creams are not medicines but are generally harmless and widely endorsed by medical personnel to complement conventional treatments. Her go-to is La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume, and she tested other cica products after experiencing increased dryness and sensitivity from a clinical-strength prescription retinoid.

She highlights Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream as a rich, family-friendly option suitable from birth, with glycerin and naturally antibacterial ingredients useful for minor burns and grazes.

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